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What if I am a High-Risk Carrier? A Guide to Informed Family Planning
Finding out that you are a high-risk carrier for a genetic condition can raise mixed emotions and important questions about your family planning journey. This article explores the steps to take after completing a genetic test and learning about your high-risk carrier status. Understanding your options and seeking appropriate support is crucial for making informed decisions that prioritise your future and your family's health. Understanding High-Risk Carrier Results Being a high-risk carrier means that you possess gene variants associated with an increased likelihood of passing on a specific genetic condition to your future children. It is important to understand the implications of your carrier status and learn more about the condition itself, including how its inherited and potential health outcomes for your kids and future generations. Differentiating X-Linked Conditions from Recessive Genes in Family Planning It is important to understand the difference between being a carrier of an X-linked condition and being a carrier of a recessive gene. If you are assigned female at birth, being a carrier of an X-linked condition means you have a gene variant on one of your X chromosomes. This means that if you have a son, he has an increased likelihood of developing the condition. Females are usually not affected as they have two X chromosomes. On the other hand, carrying a recessive gene means that you have one copy of a gene variant that may cause a genetic condition, but you are typically unaffected by the condition yourself. If both you and your reproductive partner are carriers of a recessive gene, the risk of passing on the condition to your children is higher. Seeking genetic counselling can provide you with personalised guidance and help you understand the specific risks associated with your carrier status, allowing you to make informed decisions about your family planning journey. Genetic Counselling Support Genetic counselling serves as a vital resource for individuals receiving high-risk carrier results from genetic testing. A genetic counsellor can provide detailed explanations about the genetic condition, its mode of inheritance, and the likelihood of passing it on to your children. They will guide you through the available reproductive options and help you make informed decisions based on your unique circumstances. What can I do with my results if I am high risk Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD): PGD involves testing embryos created through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) for the specific genetic condition you carry. This process allows for the selection of unaffected embryos before implantation, thereby reducing the risk of passing on the condition to your children. Testing in pregnancy: You can get pregnant naturally and test the pregnancy using NIPT and/or CVS to confirm if the pregnancy is affected. Egg or Sperm Donation: Utilising donated eggs or sperm from individuals who do not carry the high-risk gene variant can be an option to mitigate the risk of passing on the condition. This path enables you to build a family while minimising the chances of inheriting the genetic condition. Adoption or Surrogacy: Adoption and surrogacy provide alternative paths to parenthood, offering the opportunity to nurture and raise a child without the genetic risk associated with being a high-risk carrier. Emotional Support and Community Receiving high-risk carrier results can be overwhelming. It is crucial to seek emotional support from loved ones, support groups, or counselling services specialising in genetic conditions. Connecting with others who have gone through similar situations can provide comfort, understanding, and valuable insights throughout your journey. Advocacy and Awareness Learning of a high-risk carrier status can deepen your understanding of genetic conditions and their impact on families. You have the choice to become an advocate for genetic testing and raise awareness within your community. Sharing your experiences and knowledge can help others make informed decisions about their own reproductive health and family planning. Continuing Care and Future Planning Regularly monitoring advancements in medical research and technology related to genetic conditions is essential. Stay informed about emerging treatments, clinical trials, or new reproductive options that may become available. Consult with your healthcare provider and genetic counsellor to ensure that you are taking appropriate steps to prioritise your health and the health of your future children.
Understanding Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome: The Importance of Genetic Carrier Screening
Have you ever wondered why some genetic conditions appear seemingly out of nowhere within a family? Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome (SLOS) is a rare genetic disorder that often catches families off guard. But fret not; advancements in medical science, particularly in genetic carrier screening, can help identify at-risk couples even without a family history. This blog post will explore SLOS, its impact on individuals and families, and how genetic carrier screening can make a significant difference. What is Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome? Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that affects the body's ability to produce cholesterol. Cholesterol plays a crucial role in the development and function of various organs and systems, including the brain. Individuals with SLOS have deleterious variations in the DHCR7 gene, which is responsible for producing an enzyme involved in cholesterol synthesis. As a result, cholesterol levels in the body are significantly reduced, leading to a wide range of physical, developmental, and cognitive challenges. How common is SLOS? Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome (SLOS) is a rare genetic disorder, and its exact prevalence is estimated to be around 1 in 20,000 to 60,000 live births. It is an autosomal recessive condition, which occurs when an individual inherits two copies of the mutated gene, one from each parent. To inherit SLOS, both parents must be carriers of the gene mutation without displaying symptoms. Carriers have only one copy of the mutated gene and typically do not experience any health issues related to the condition. Approximately 1 in 70 people are carriers of SLOS. When both reproductive partners are carriers, there is a 25% chance with each pregnancy that the child will inherit two copies of the mutated gene, leading to the development of SLOS. It is important to note that SLOS can occur in any ethnic or racial group, and the risk of having a child with SLOS is the same for both genders. Genetic carrier screening can be valuable in identifying individuals who carry the gene mutation, even if they do not have a family history of the disorder, allowing for informed family planning decisions and appropriate medical support. Symptoms and Impact The symptoms and severity of SLOS can vary from person to person, but some common characteristics include: Facial and physical abnormalities: Individuals with SLOS may have distinctive facial features, such as a small head, low-set ears, a cleft palate, and widely spaced eyes. They may also experience growth delays, weak muscle tone, and malformations of the hands, feet, and internal organs. Developmental delays: Children with SLOS often experience delays in reaching developmental milestones, such as sitting, crawling, and walking. They may have intellectual disabilities and struggle with learning, speech, and communication skills. Behavioural and emotional challenges: Individuals with SLOS may exhibit autistic-like behaviours, such as repetitive movements, difficulty with social interactions, and heightened sensory sensitivities. They may also have behavioural issues, including aggression and self-injurious behaviours. Genetic Carrier Screening: The Importance of Identifying At-Risk Couples Genetic carrier screening is a powerful tool that can help identify individuals who carry gene mutations for specific genetic conditions, such as SLOS, even if they do not show any signs or symptoms themselves. It involves testing for specific genetic variations that can be passed on to children. By screening potential parents before conception, healthcare professionals can provide crucial information and support to couples who may be at risk of having a child with a genetic disorder. The Absence of Family History Genetic conditions like SLOS may appear unexpectedly in a family with no prior history of the disorder. This can happen when both parents are carriers of the same gene mutation but are unaware of it. Carrier screening becomes especially important in these situations, as it helps identify at-risk couples before they conceive a child, enabling them to make informed decisions about family planning. Preconception carrier screening can be done through a simple saliva sample. It examines the DNA of both partners to determine if they carry any gene mutations associated with genetic disorders. Suppose both parents are found to be carriers of the same mutation. In that case, they can explore various options with healthcare professionals, such as preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGT-M), adoption, or other family planning methods. Smith-Lemli-Opitz Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder that can profoundly impact individuals and families. However, with advancements in genetic carrier screening, we have the power to identify at-risk couples even in the absence of family history. By understanding the underlying genetic risks and making informed decisions, couples can take steps to ensure the health and well-being of their future children. Genetic carrier screening empowers individuals to make choices that can positively impact you can get started here.
The science and technology behind genetic testing and its role in modern pregnancy planning
Parenthood brings a whole new set of questions and challenges — from the type of food you feed your kid to which pram to get. One important question is: Should I get tested for genetic variations that could indicate potential health risks in my little one? Before deciding, it’s helpful to understand both the science and technology behind these tests. This blog post examines how next-generation sequencing (NGS) has enabled researchers to identify genetic variations linked to disease but also addresses some ethical considerations around this topic so that any decision you make can be an educated one. The History of Genetic Testing Genetic testing has come a long way since the launch of the Human Genome Project back in 1990. This project aimed to sequence the entire human genome and succeeded in doing so by 2003. Thanks to this milestone achievement, scientists could identify genes linked to certain diseases and conditions. From there, genetic testing became more prevalent and sophisticated, allowing people to understand their risk factors and take preventative measures. However, as with any new technology, genetic testing has ethical concerns. It's important for us to use this powerful tool responsibly and empathetically, considering the potential consequences of discovering potentially life-altering information. What is Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)? Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) is a revolutionary technology that has transformed how we study genetics. By using NGS, scientists can analyse the DNA sequence of an organism in much greater detail and at a faster rate than ever before. This has opened up new avenues for research, enabling us to explore previously inaccessible areas of genomics. With its incredible power to produce vast amounts of data, NGS has become an indispensable tool for geneticists, biologists, and medical researchers seeking to better understand the intricate workings of life. This technological innovation has given us the power to unlock vital information about the genetic basis of disease, investigate the evolution of species, and examine the complexities of human diversity. NGS is a true game-changer in the field of genetics, and its impact will be felt for many years to come. How is Genetic Testing Used Today? With technological advancements, genetic testing has become increasingly accessible and affordable for individuals interested in learning more about their health. By analysing a person's DNA, genetic testing can identify genetic variants associated with various diseases or specific traits. This information can be used to diagnose a condition, guide treatment decisions, and even prevent the transmission of inherited diseases to future generations. Additionally, genetic testing can provide a sense of empowerment by equipping individuals with knowledge about their own health that they may not have had access to otherwise. While there are still limitations to genetic testing, such as the potential for false positives/negatives and the accuracy of interpreting results, it remains a powerful tool in modern healthcare. What are the Benefits and Risks of Genetic Testing? Genetic testing is a powerful tool that can offer many benefits. With personalised treatment plans tailored to your individual genetic makeup, you may be able to receive more effective treatments for certain conditions. However, it is important to consider the potential ethical considerations involved in deciding whether or not to undergo genetic testing. On the one hand, genetic testing can offer valuable insights into your health risks, allowing you to take preventative measures. On the other hand, some individuals may struggle with the emotional burden of knowing their genetic predispositions. Ultimately, the decision to undergo genetic testing is personal and should be carefully weighed with the help of a genetic counsellor. What’s Next in Genetic Testing? Genetic testing has come a long way in recent years, but the potential for further research is immense. As we delve deeper into the complex world of human genetics and gain a deeper understanding of how our bodies work, we can unlock new prevention methods and lifesaving treatments. The possibilities are endless, from identifying genetic markers for diseases before they even develop to tailoring medications to an individual’s unique genetic makeup. Investing in this field ensures that this technology reaches its full potential, changing the face of medicine and improving people's health worldwide. It’s an exciting time for genetic testing, and the future looks bright for those willing to explore its vast potential. As we've seen, genetic testing can be a highly valuable tool in diagnosing certain chronic illnesses and inherited diseases. Not only does this help individuals plan for their healthcare needs with more security, but it can also give families greater peace of mind when it comes to understanding their own risks. With next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology, researchers have unlocked many secrets about genes and how they interact with our environment to cause complex conditions such as diabetes or cancer. However, it's important to consider all of the potential benefits and risks associated with genetic testing before making any decisions. We must also remember that there is still so much left to learn from this relatively new field of research. In the end, understanding the implications of genetic testing on a personal and societal level should factor into your decision-making process before making any commitments.
Planning for a pregnancy: The Importance of Preconception Care in 2023
As prospective parents in 2023, preconception care ought to be a top priority on your journey to parenthood. By embracing personalised preconception care, addressing underlying medical conditions, adopting a healthy lifestyle, & considering genetic carrier screening, you can increase the chances of a healthy pregnancy.
Genomic research and its diversity problem
The lack of diversity in genomic research has significant long-term implications for healthcare outcomes, particularly for people from diverse ethnic backgrounds. To address this issue we need a collaborative, coordinated and a focused global effort that spans across government, academia, public and private clinical genomic services.
Pink Hope's grant program provides access to proactive cancer genetic testing.
Exciting news! Pink Hope, in partnership with SHEIN, is proud to provide more access to proactive and preventative care through their genetic testing grant program. Eugene is honoured to be a part of this new and incredible initiative supporting 50 individuals on their lifetime cancer risk journeys. Genetic testing has become an essential tool for many individuals and families to understand their risk of certain heritable diseases, including various types of cancer. However, not everyone has easy access to these tests, especially those who do not qualify for publicly funded genetic testing or face long wait times to access it. To address this issue, Pink Hope, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing support and information to those at risk of breast and ovarian cancer, has partnered with Eugene to provide end-to-end care for all people to enable them to make proactive choices about their health. Together with sponsorship from SHEIN, Pink Hope's grant program provides 50 people with free genetic testing and counselling for an expanded gene panel that includes a total of 65 genes that are known to increase the risk of the most common heritable cancers, including breast, ovarian, and prostate cancer. By expanding the gene panel beyond the common genetic causes of these cancers, individuals who may have a family history of other types of cancer can also benefit from this program. Working with an internationally accredited laboratory, Eugene ensures that individuals who receive testing through this grant program receive a medical-grade test (which is non-invasive) and genetic counselling support to make informed decisions. The value of Eugene's Proactive Cancer Risk Test is $795AUD, which is Australia and New Zealand’s most accessible end-to-end test in the market. While Pink Hope and we at Eugene wish we could help everyone who needs proactive cancer genetic testing, they have a limited number of places in the grant program. However, we are committed to working with as many individuals as possible to help them access the care that is most appropriate for them. It is important to note that this grant program is designed to give access to genetic screening for those who are not eligible for Medicare-funded testing. Those who are not able to access testing through this program can purchase the test here with pay-later options available. If you are interested in applying for Pink Hope's grant program to receive free genetic testing and counselling, you can apply online through their website. This opportunity is open to anyone who meets the eligibility criteria and is not eligible for Medicare-funded testing who fits into the eligibility criteria: Participants will be over the age of 18 years and be able to make an informed decision Participants can live anywhere in Australia and New Zealand - if interpreters are required Pink Hope can facilitate this. Participants will have a family history of cancer Your expression of interest will be assessed based on how you meet the above criteria and the appropriateness of this test for your particular situation or history.* If you have a current cancer diagnosis or already have a gene variant in the family, there is likely a more appropriate genetic test available, such as diagnostic or predictive genetic testing, which may be funded by Medicare. You are likely eligible for Medicare-funded testing; please reach out to Pink Hope, who can help navigate your care options and pathways to these. Pink Hope's grant program, with the support of SHEIN, is an important step towards making genetic testing more accessible and affordable for those who may not otherwise have access to this healthcare service. Eugene invites all those who qualify for the grant program to apply and take advantage of this opportunity.
